Comments on: How to: WF Version 2.0 Standing AirLift Mini (SAM)

By: Mike Linton

Mike Linton — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 19:47:03 +0000

I’m having trouble understanding the exact materials needed as well. The materials needed don’t seem to match what is in the instructions exactly. Materials list 3/8″ OUTSIDE diameter tube (I think they mean tube but doesn’t actually say it) but then the instructions list a 3/8″ INSIDE diameter tube. The materials also ask for a few other tubes, but I think the pump comes with some of those? Anyway, if anyone has a more exact shopping list or requirements, that would be much appreciated. I understand there is room for interpretation but I’m trying to keep it simple for my first build.

By: Celeste

Celeste — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:21:10 +0000

I’m having trouble getting the proper size air tube…. Can anyone dumb it down further and tell me the length and size of each tube.

By: Windowfarms

Windowfarms — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:01:38 +0000

@Hassan
The pump may be the problem, but several other things may be the problem instead. Please use the troubleshooting guide at http://our.windowfarms.org/2010/03/05/airlift-troubleshooting/. If you still can’t find the problem, please make a post with a picture of your system. To make a post use the top navigation bar when you are logged in to select “New Post.” To add a picture, click on the icon that looks like a sun above the text area when you are making the post (should be more obvious. I know). Make sure your image size is not huge or you will not be able to upload. I think 2 MB is the max. If you put somethign like “Help” in the title, of a post with pictures, the community will certainly be able to jump to your assistance on the specific problem.

If you still can’t get it to work, try the t-valve method. Use the search bar at top right. You will have to go back to the store and see if you can find a tvalve, but it has proven to be a very elegant solution over time.

Keep in mind that having trouble is a good thing! By going through the troubleshooting process, you will learn much more than most other people do when it all goes well the first time. You will know the system in and out and will be able to explain it to other people much better, making you an R&D-I-Y genius! In this community, we all really value working through problems and learning from them, so keep up the good work and know that we’ve got your back! Good luck. -B

By: Hassan

Hassan — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 03:41:58 +0000

(PLEASE reply asap)

I am making a window farm for my school project. I have everything in place.

The problem is that the water is not going up through the airlifting tube. I am using the same tubing that is mentioned in the manual, and there is no air leakage in the system. The only difference is that I am using a different pump. This is the pump that I am using..
http://ca-en.hagen.com/Aquatic/Aeration/Air-Pumps/11116
It is Marina 200 Air Pump. It is a two way pump. 4.5 watt

Do I have to use another pump, is it only going to work with Petco Air Pump??

Please advice what should I do. My project is due in 2 days

By: Hardware Junkie

Hardware Junkie — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:50:17 +0000

As long as the milk bottle is plastic or glass its fine, a carton will fall apart over time.

By: Yiyi Wang

Yiyi Wang — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:26:08 +0000

Just wondering if I can replace the 1 gallon bottle with our 2Lite milk bottle? does it have to be 1 gallon?

By: Sissy Willis

Sissy Willis — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:34:55 +0000

I have just downloaded the instructions and cannot wait to get started. I have many friends who will enjoy this. I love the fact all of this must be shared and not sold. you people are fantastic. Your karma will be grand.

By: Cheryl

Cheryl — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:52:04 +0000

I just joined this site, after reading an article on Window Farms & how to grow your own salad in you living room! The directions are VERY easy to understand, even for someone who is as much of an UN-DIYer as I am! I will start collecting supplies/items now & hopefully in about a month, will be building my 1st window farm…..This is going to be so cool!

By: Windowfarms

Windowfarms — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 23:46:35 +0000

@Kelly Finnamore- Yep, you should definitely use a timer. I recommend getting a 48 on/off mechanical 24 hour cycle timer. Use the search bar to see more posts about timers. There’s a way to hack one of those to get a finer degree of control. It’s fun!

By: Erickson Taniajura

Erickson Taniajura — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 22:45:58 +0000

For those of you who wants to watch instead of reading instructions, check this video by Mayra Cimet:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8shuvMGIvc&feature=related